The Psychology of Wood

When I enter a room that was thoughtfully designed with wood, I pause, close my eyes, and breathe in deeply. Wood is virtually odorless once it is finished and installed, but its presence in a room is at once demanding of attention, comforting, and timeless. I can't help but take it all in as one restorative breath.

It's not just me, a wood supplier, who feels this way. All humans have an innate attraction to nature, and designing workplaces with nature in mind can make people happier and more productive. We've seen the wonders natural light can do to employee morale. Studies have shown using wood in a similar manner can offer psychological and physiological benefits, from reducing stress and anxiety to lowering blood pressure and heart rates.

Knowing that wood was responsibly-sourced adds feelings of well-being, environmental stewardship, and community vitality to the mix.

We have a great opportunity in the local architecture and design industry to feature wood prominently in retail, corporate, and industrial settings, both from a human health and an environmental standpoint. One example: as more of Wisconsin's population of 750 million ash trees fall victim to infestations of the emerald ash borer, Wudeward Urban Forest Products will experience an influx of ash wood lumber. And the design community will have the chance to put this unique product to its highest and best use as flooring, cabinetry, furniture, or paneling.

Contact me to learn more about the beauty of ash wood lumber and the benefits that all Wisconsin Urban Wood has to offer.